Does Johnny Manziel’s skill set fit the NFL?

Much like Russell Wilson, Johnny Manziel’s ability to scramble could help make up for his lack of size at the NFL level. (Karen Warren /Chronicle)

A debate that will continue to heat up throughout the 2013 college football season is if Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel’s skill set equates to him being a successful QB in the NFL.

An ESPN.com: Stats & Info article takes a look at Manziel’s abilities in four key categories and comes to the conclusion that Manziel has the talent, with some improvement, to succeed.

The four categories were overall ability (he completed 68 percent of his passes in 2012), ability to handle the blitz (biggest numbers when scrambling), downfield precision (he completed 38.7 percent of passes 20 yards or longer) and composure under duress (he completed 51.4 percent of his passes when pressured, about 11 percent higher than the FBS average).

The article also brings up the question of his size (6-1 and 200 pounds). According to ESPN’s research, 49 NFL quarterbacks attempted at least 30 passes last season. Only three were 6-1 or shorter, and only one weighed 200 pounds or less.

The Saints’ Drew Brees (6-0, 209) and the Seahawks’ Russell Wilson (5-11, 206) are among those who are showing that NFL quarterbacks don’t have to be big to succeed.